The war of words continues between Angel di Maria and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez. The Argentine winger now claims that Real told him to not play in the World Cup final against Germany, while Perez insists that the club offered him a great deal, only to be snubbed. But with all this talk, who will have come out the winner?
Well, we have to take a look at what Perez and Real received. Di Maria was sold for almost $100 million. But the impact of this transfer goes beyond just one player. In addition to the money, Real continued its galacticos policy, with the purchases of James Rodriguez, Toni Kroos, and Keylor Navas.
All of them had outstanding performances in the most recent World Cup. Of course, these new signings left no room for Xabi Alonso as well, who moved on to Bayern Munich. And with a frontline that already fields Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale, di Maria was only a second option.
So far, so good. Real made good money from di Maria and brought in new players. Right?
Well, the loss to Real Sociedad said otherwise. After goals from Sergio Ramos and Bale, Sociedad responded with a remarkable 4-goal comeback in a crushing defeat for the Madrid team. Not to say this defeat followed the loss to Athletico Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup.
Meanwhile, Angel di Maria scored a goal and assisted on three in a friendly rematch against Germany. A goal and 3 assists. To be involved in all four goals, without Messi by your side, is incredible. Di Maria showcased why he is a top 3 player at his position and potentially why Real made a mistake in surrendering him so easily.
Of course, no further statement can be made without time. Only time will tell whether di Maria is more successful at Old Trafford or if Perez made the right choice in selling him. Note that the loss of Mesut Ozil a year ago is proving to be worthwhile, as he has struggled to regain his form.
But this one might be different. Di Maria assisted in so many of Ronaldo’s goals that Madrid will likely have to implement a new formation and strategy to combat the loss of the winger.
